Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a rich source of dietary fiber, and crude proteins. They are rich sources
of several types of vitamins. Mushrooms are rich in Vitamin B, C and D. Mushrooms are
considered to be rich in the anti-pellagra vitamin, niacin. They are also rich in thiamine (B1),
riboflavin (B2), niacin, biotin, and ascorbic acid. Some mushroom varieties are rich in vitamin
K and vitamin E also. Mushrooms are rich in minerals particularly calcium, phosphorus,
potassium and iron but they are low in sodium. A major percent of the total iron present in
mushrooms is in easily available form. Major health benefits of mushrooms are given below:
1. Mushrooms are rich sources of easily digestible crude fiber and hence known as the
‘delight of the diabetics’
2. Often grouped with vegetables, mushrooms are rich in nutrients that are commonly
found in meat and eggs; hence considered as the ‘meat of the vegetable world’
3. The only plant food that contain Vitamin D
4. Low in calories, starch-free, fat-free or very less fat content, and cholesterol-free
5. A good source of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and Pantothenic acid;
Pantothenic acid improves the production of hormones while riboflavin maintains
healthy RBCs (red blood cells); niacin promotes healthy skin
6. Among the richest sources of Selenium, an antioxidant that acts as anti-aging and
anti-cancerogenic mineral; it also improves the immune system and fertility in men
7. Rich in Ergothioneine, a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps protect the
body’s cells
8. Rich in Copper that helps make RBCs; it also keeps bones and nerves healthy
9. Rich in Beta-glucans which has immunity-stimulating effects; it also helps resist certain types of allergies